All Black Cory Jane could miss Super Rugby season

ALL BLACK wing Cory Jane could miss the entire Super Rugby season after badly injuring his knee in training.

The 41-test veteran was carried off the pitch and it was later revealed he had significant damage to his right Anterior Cruciate Ligament.

He is likely to miss at least three months of the Hurricanes’ season.

The social media savvy player tweeted “I WILL BE BACK”, as well as posting a picture of himself in the Zoro costume he had planned to wear to the Wellington Sevens tournament.

Jane had just rejoined his team-mates after a period of annual leave following strong performances for the All Blacks last season.

“It is devastating for Cory to have suffered this serious injury when he was looking so strong for this season following such a successful 2012. We know that CJ is focused and dedicated to his rehabilitation. So he will be committed to working hard in his recovery to come back better and stronger,” coach Mark Hammett told Fairfax NZ.

“This is not the news we wanted to hear at the start of the season and we acknowledge the loss of a world-class player. However, we have a strong squad for 2013 and CJ’s misfortune means it’s an opportunity for another player to step up.”

He is expected to take a leadership role and assist management for the season.

“Cory’s energy, experience and public following means he still has a lot to give to the game and the team,” Hammett said.

The injury gives Hammett and assistant Alama Ieremia a headache ahead of their season opener against the Blues.

Other wing options in the Hurricanes squad include All Black Julian Savea, Alapati Leiua, Matt Proctor and Richard Buckman.